Dear Engler College of Business Community,
As we conclude this spring semester, we find ourselves reflecting on a period marked not only by significant achievements but also by poignant moments. One such moment was the mourning of Dr. Paul Engler, a visionary whose legacy continues to inspire our work and whose name we proudly bear. His legacy is a guiding light that continues to inspire us, and his profound love and commitment to education and the students he impacted are celebrated in the tribute found in this issue of our newsletter.
I am proud and profoundly grateful for our faculty, students, and alumni, whose spirit of innovation and dedication to service continue to define our university. This newsletter is filled with stories that showcase these qualities, and I am excited to share them with you.
We begin with a heartfelt tribute to Dr. Paul Engler, a figure whose passion for education and dedication to our students have left an indelible mark on our community. His story, spanning nearly a thousand words in this issue, is a testament to the powerful impact one individual can have on many.
We celebrate the completion of our Six-Year 2024-2029 Strategic Plan, “Navigating the Future of Business Education Excellence.” This roadmap outlines significant advancements for our college, ensuring a future of unprecedented potential. The successful completion of this plan stands as a testament to the relentless dedication and collective efforts of our faculty, staff, students, and stakeholders. We look forward to sharing this strategic plan with our community before the fall semester begins, aligning us all for continued success.
This year, we proudly introduced the new Master of Science in Strategic Human Resource Management (MS in SHRM), designed to equip our students with the expertise to thrive in the ever-evolving human resources landscape. This program promises to open new doors for our graduates and prepare them for the challenges of tomorrow.
In the realm of experiential learning, Kelly McCauley’s Leadership and Teamwork class stands out. This spring, our students not only honed their skills in leadership and collaboration but also demonstrated their commitment to our community by raising significant funds for local charities—a true embodiment of our college’s values.
Our faculty’s dedication to their fields is exemplified by Andrew Li, who donates countless hours to the Journal of Applied Psychology, and Leslie Ramos Salazar, whose work with ALPFA prepares our students to be business leaders. Similarly, Rahul Chauhan’s leadership of the SHRM Clothing Drive has shown how our community can make a real difference in people’s lives.
We also celebrate Jennifer Anguiano, an alumna who continues to serve with distinction at the Amarillo Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Her involvement is a shining example of how our graduates continue influencing and enhancing our wider community.
Recognition of our faculty’s excellence remains a cornerstone of our mission, and this year’s Faculty Excellence Awards were once again a highlight. Each recipient exemplifies our commitment to academic rigor and educational excellence.
The COB 2024 Symposium was another milestone, not only recognizing our faculty and students but also honoring community members for their accomplishments and support of the Engler College of Business. This event underscores the vital connections between our institution and the wider community, celebrating the mutual support that fuels our collective success.
Lastly, the achievements of our Digital Marketing Competition team, led by Mary Liz Brooks, deserve a special mention. Our students ranked 4th nationally, showcasing their creative and analytical prowess in a highly competitive arena.
Adding to these accomplishments, this May, we celebrate the graduation of 330 students, with 170 undergraduates and 160 graduates ready to embark on their professional journeys. Each graduate represents our future, carrying forward the knowledge and values we uphold at the Engler College of Business.
As we move into summer, I encourage everyone to relax, recharge, and explore new opportunities. Summer offers a perfect chance to gain new experiences and perspectives that will enrich your personal and professional life. Enjoy the warm days ahead, and let’s carry forward the momentum of this successful semester into the next academic year.
Thank you all for another remarkable semester. Your dedication and support make the Engler College of Business a remarkable place to learn, teach, and grow. I am grateful for each and every one of you. Enjoy your summer, and I look forward to seeing what we will achieve together in the fall.
Sincerely,
Dr. Amjad Abdullat
Dean